If there’s one thing winter in college can guarantee, it’s that you will be freezing on your walk to class. And honestly? Dressing cute when it’s 30 degrees out feels almost impossible.
Every time the temperature drops, we’re suddenly faced with the question: How do I not freeze to death but also not look completely stupid?
The good news is you don’t have to sacrifice your style to stay warm. You just have to be smarter about layering and what pieces you reach for. Here’s how to survive cold-weather campus life without giving up your whole aesthetic.
- Master the Art of Layering Without Bulking Up
-
Layering gets a bad reputation because people imagine stacking five hoodies on top of each other. In reality, it’s just choosing layers that are thin, warm and cute on their own.
Start with a fitted long-sleeve base layer. Uniqlo HeatTech, Aerie long sleeves and basic cotton tees all work. Then add your sweater, crewneck or zip-up. Your final layer – your coat – should be warm but not too oversized unless that’s your vibe. The key is making sure each layer looks intentional.
Bonus tip: Tuck your base layer into your pants. It traps heat and stops the cold breeze from sneaking in.
- Invest In Real Materials, Not Cute But Useless Stuff
-
Fast fashion winter gear might photograph well, but half of it won’t keep you warm for more than 10 minutes. If you can, swap out thin knits for real wool, fleece or heavy cotton. You don’t have to spend a lot either. Thrift stores are full of high-quality sweaters you’ll never find in a trend drop.
For outerwear, stick to puffers or wool coats. Neutral colors like black, brown, cream or charcoal go with everything and earn you the most “I actually tried” payoff with the least effort.
- Be Smart About Bottoms (Jeans Alone Won’t Cut It)
-
Jeans in 30-degree weather are fine for the walk from your dorm to the dining hall. But the walk across campus? Absolutely not.
Fleece-lined leggings or tights under your jeans are a game changer. If you love skirts, pair them with thick tights, leg warmers or knee-high boots. Cargo pants, parachute pants and corduroys keep heat in much better than denim.
Basically, dress your legs like they matter too.
- Accessories Aren’t Optional
-
Scarves, gloves and hats are not extra; they’re essential. Luckily, they also make you look more put together.
A chunky knit scarf instantly elevates a simple outfit. Mittens keep your hands warmer than gloves. A beanie is cute, but a headband or earmuffs protect your hair and still keeps your ears warm.
Bonus tip: Match your accessories to your coat so everything looks like it flows.
- Shoes Can Be Warm and Cute
-
You don’t have to wear huge snow boots every day. Uggs are always cute. So are platform boots, Doc Martens with fuzzy socks and insulated sneakers.
The real secret is socks. Thick, warm socks make a bigger difference than the shoes themselves. Wool or thermal socks will keep your toes from freezing.
If your campus gets icy, choose shoes with good traction. Slipping on the way to class isn’t embarrassing, but it definitely hurts.
- Hair and Makeup Matter More In the Winter
-
Cold weather has a way of making everyone feel dull, but leaning into your beauty routine (even when you really don’t feel like it) can help you feel more confident under all the layers.
Slick your hair back into a bun or braid if it’s windy. Use extra moisturizer so your skin doesn’t dry out. A little lip tint or mascara goes a long way and keeps you from looking like you just rolled out of bed.
You don’t have to freeze to look cute, and you don’t have to dress like you’re hiking a mountain to stay warm. The most stylish people on campus aren’t the ones wearing the trendiest pieces, they’re the ones who are both cute and confident.
College is already exhausting. If your outfit can make your morning walk even a little easier, it’s worth it. Just put in a little more effort. Let yourself be warm and cozy. You can be comfortable and chic.